Are you an oil-change addict?

This graphic, created by GM several years ago, gives a rough idea of how many miles should be expected between oil changes. (GM GRAPHIC)

In the past, changing oil every 3,000 miles or three months was the industry standard recommendation. That recommendation was based on oil quality and engine technology from the 1970s, which have greatly improved.

Today, it’s commonly suggested that more than double those miles before an oil change is OK. The average oil change should be at about 7,800 miles and as high as 20,000 miles in some cars. Of course, intervals depend on the vehicle, oil used and conditions under which the vehicle is driven.

This is great news — saves the owner hassle and money, and helps the environment by saving millions of gallons of oil from being used.

Changing your oil every 3,000 miles/5,000 km miles or 3 months, whichever comes first, is generally recommended. However, you should follow the recommendations in your owner’s manual. Even a car that is not running will get oil contamination as a result of accumulated moisture. If the car isn’t run long enough to get rid of the moisture, it becomes damaging.

There are still many oil-change addicts around who stick to the 3,000-mile schedule.